Ram is recalling more than 212,000 pickup trucks because of concerns that their side-curtain airbag inflators may rupture even if the airbag does not deploy. According to Consumer Reports, this could send debris flying into the vehicle’s cabin, posing a serious danger to drivers and passengers. A Ram spokesperson said the automaker is aware of one incident in which an airbag ruptured, but there were no injuries. A recall has now been issued to investigate the issue.
Details of the Recall
This recall follows a similar issue with Chevrolet and GMC trucks in which three unoccupied vehicles experienced ruptured airbags in June 2021. In that case, the airbag manufacturer, Joyson Safety Systems, determined that the problem was caused by corrosion inside the inflator due to moisture introduced during the manufacturing process. The problem becomes worse if temperatures change in hot regions.
The recalled vehicles include certain 2015-2020 Ram 3500 and 2500 heavy-duty trucks and chassis, 2015-2019 Ram 1500 pickup trucks, and 2019-2020 Ram Classic pickup trucks. The current generation Ram 1500, which debuted as a 2019 model,, is unaffected. When the recall begins, dealers will replace the faulty airbags at no cost to consumers. If you own one of these vehicles and have questions, please call Ram customer service at 1-800-853-1403.
Why Are Side Airbags Important?
Side-curtain airbags are designed to protect an occupant’s chest and head in case of a side-impact crash. Side airbags provide cushioning and spread the force load of the crash impact to prevent any part of the body from sustaining concentrated impact forces. A head-protecting side airbag is particularly important because it may be the only barrier between the occupant’s head and the striking vehicle since window glass can shatter in a crash.
Because of the small space between an occupant and the side of the vehicle, these side airbags must deploy very quickly, typically within the first 10 to 20 milliseconds of a side crash. If these airbags are defective or fail to deploy, a side-impact crash could result in catastrophic injuries or even deaths.
Auto Product Liability Issues
If you have been injured in a car accident because of defective airbags, you may have a product liability lawsuit against the automaker, the manufacturer of the airbag, and other parties involved. You may be able to seek compensation for damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, hospitalization, rehabilitation, and pain and suffering.
In such cases, it is important that you preserve the vehicle and the airbag in their current condition, so an expert can thoroughly examine them for all evidence of malfunctions and defects. An experienced auto defect lawyer will be able to guide you through the process and help you recover maximum compensation for your losses.
Source: https://www.consumerreports.org/car-recalls-defects/ram-recalls-faulty-side-curtain-airbags-a6548085656/
